Wow, whilst I am away the Pro Tools world takes a lerch forward!! New Software version Pro Tools HD version 8.1 announced. This is only for HD users, I guess LE and M Powered users will have to wait a bit. Pro Tools HD 8.1 is a free update for Pro Tools HD 8.0-8.0.4 owners. Pro Tools 8.1 Details — Avid is pleased to announce the availability of Pro Tools® HD 8.1, a free update for Pro Tools HD 8.0-8.0.4 owners. This latest update offers performance enhancements and fixes, plus new support for the Pro Tools HD Series interfaces—HD I/O, HD OMNI, and HD MADI. It also adds software support for HEAT (Harmonically Enhanced Algorithm Technology), a new Pro Tools HD software add-on for adding analog warmth and color to your mix. This is what Brent Heber has to say about the new version.. Now, you may think, 8.1 is a point release, probably some bug fixes and support for the NEW INTERFACES ( back to those in a tic) but in actuality, 8.1 sees the release of a massive, amazing, brilliant new feature set that will save serious mixers potentially hours and hours of their life. No, its not HEAT, the new tube/analogue warmth buss flavour feature….it’s the I/O setup. Yes, the I/O setup! New in 8.1, the I/O setup has been totally overhauled to make moving sessions between rooms a much, much easier process! Avid audio listened to the gripes about moving large projects between rooms, endlessly moving those little squares around to just get audio out your speakers. Taken from the I/O Setup primer: “In Pro Tools 8.1, changes to the I/O Setup have been made in order to solve session interchange issues (such as maintaining studio settings on different Pro Tools systems) and to provide better overall workflows for session interchange. In lower versions of Pro Tools, I/O settings are recalled from the Pro Tools session document, so studio settings corresponding to your hardware could potentially change each time a session is opened. This can result in a temporary loss of monitor paths. In Pro Tools 8.1, I/O settings can be recalled from the system. This means that your studio settings can be maintained when opening sessions created on other Pro Tools systems” So, THAT is cool! Cant wait to play with it and put it through its paces. I completely agree Brent, Although there is no way I would have predicted this as the feature Avid would choose to add at this point but it will be so useful for those of us who move sessions around differently configured systems. Pro Tools 8.1 Downloads Please see these individual pages for downloads, installation instructions, and additional information: Pro Tools HD 8.1 Updates — August 17, 2010 Pro Tools HD 8.1 Update for Mac OS X Pro Tools HD 8.1 Update for Windows More about the new Pro Tools HD Series interfaces: Pro Tools|HD Product Section Compatibility Summary Pro Tools HD 8.1 supports the following operating systems: Mac OS X 10.6.2, 10.6.3, and 10.6.4 (Snow Leopard) Windows XP Service Pack 3 (Home or Professional, 32-bit) Although not officially supported, Pro Tools HD 8.1 can be used on Windows 7 (32 and 64-bit) continuing the public beta program for HD systems. Please Note: Pro Tools HD 8.1 software will be the last version of Pro Tools HD to support the Windows  XP operating system Pro Tools 8.0.4 was the last version of Pro Tools to support Mac OS X 10.5 (Leopard) and Windows Vista operating systems Please read the EOSS (End of Software Support) Announcements for more information. Not Compatible Pro Tools 8.0.3 software and higher does not support some retired products, including: Expansion|HD Chassis Macintosh PowerPC Computers Please read the EOSS (End of Software Support) Announcements for more information. New interfaces HD OMNI Pristine audio clarity and ultra low latency through state-of-the-art A/D and D/A conversion High-quality, low-noise analog I/O: 2 premium, digitally-controlled mic/DI preamps 4 line inputs 8 line outputs, with true analog gain Versatile digital I/O, with sample rate conversion: 8 channels of ADAT I/O (supports S/MUX II and IV) 2x8 channels of AES/EBU I/O 2 channels of S/PDIF I/O Completely integrates with Pro Tools|HD for full routing, mixing, and monitoring control HD I/O Pristine audio clarity and ultra low latency through state-of-the-art A/D and D/A conversion, premium analog circuitry, and meticulous attention to design Adapt the interface for your needs—choose from three configurations: Get a balance of analog and digital I/O with HD I/O 8x8x8 Maximize your analog I/O with HD I/O 16x16 Analog Go all digital with HD I/O 16x16 Digital Versatile digital I/O on all interfaces, with built-in sample rate conversion Completely integrates with Pro Tools|HD for full input, output, and routing control HD MADI Send and receive up to 64 audio streams between Pro Tools|HD and other MADI devices Maintain maximum audio fidelity, with up to 24-bit, 192 kHz sample rate support Gain connection and routing flexibility through optical and coaxial connections: 2 MADI inputs (optical and coaxial) 2 MADI outputs (simultaneous optical and coaxial) Forget having to match sample rates, thanks to built-in SRC on all I/O channels Sync to an external clock through dedicated BNC Word Clock and XLR AES/EBU connections when using SRC on output Completely integrates with Pro Tools|HD for full input, output, and routing control Compact 1U rack-mountable design overcomes space limitations I have to say my favourite of these is the HD OMNI It has the perfect combination of I/O. 8 analog outs for monitoring, cans feeds etc, 2 mic pres for basic tracking, some line inputs for other bits and a raft of 8 way digital inputs so I can add my Focus rite Octopre's and away I go when I need to multi-track on location and all in a 1U unit. The only downside is currently my interface is in my computer cupboard so to take advantage of the monitoring section I would need to remote the interface from my computer and I would need to see how long the interface cable can be. Heat This is what Avid have to say on their web site about this new plug-in HEAT that isn't a plug-in... Add some HEAT to your mix. Get the warmth and sonic character of analog “in the box” with HEAT (Harmonically Enhanced Algorithm Technology), an easy-to-use Pro Tools|HD software add-on that gives you the euphonic characteristics of prized analog gear without the expense or added bulk. Whether you’re mixing music or sound for picture, you’ll get the unmistakable sonic characteristics of a vintage analog console or outboard gear to “gel” your mixes together—right in Pro Tools. Try it free for 30 days. Now there is a demo for you to listen too.. Take a Listen This song*, “Ninja” by Nimble Tailors, features interchanging mixes done completely “in the box” with Pro Tools|HD and with two different settings in HEAT. Download the video (right click to save file) and take a listen through your best headphones or speakers to hear how HEAT shapes the mix. Well to my ears it is subtle but I do like the idea of adding more even harmonics, it is of course at the root of the whole analog, valve, tape sound and to have it on every track is an interesting feature to add, again as in the 8.1 update, not the one I would have thought of first. Now I will have to update to Apple's Snow Leopard software before I can try any of these things out and I have resisted it so far.

This update will be of use to those of us you haven't or can't upgrade to 8.0.3 because the various bugs that I have blogged about here. This is what Digidesign have said... Introducing Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 for users of PowerPC Macintosh, original Mbox, and Expansion|HD chassis In August 2009 we announced that Pro Tools 8.0.1 would be the last full Pro Tools release to support PowerPC-based Macs, the original Mbox, and Expansion|HD chassis. We have continued to monitor the performance of 8.0.1 and now, based on user feedback, we are pleased to offer you one final Pro Tools software update—Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2—to address your most requested fixes. Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 updates for Pro Tools 8.0.1 HD, LE, and M-Powered are available for download from the Pro Tools CS Updates page in the Knowledge Base. Pro Tools 8.0.1 CS Updates Previous installation of Pro Tools 8.0.1 for Mac OS X or Windows is required. Released May 12, 2010: Pro Tools HD 8.0.1cs2 Update for Mac Pro Tools HD 8.0.1cs2 Update for Windows Pro Tools LE 8.0.1cs2 Update for Mac Pro Tools LE 8.0.1cs2 Update for Windows Pro Tools M-Powered 8.0.1cs2 Update for Mac Pro Tools M-Powered 8.0.1cs2 Update for Windows Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 for Mac OS X contains fixes in the following areas: Relinking Solo Locked Region Groups, Conforming MIDI Scoring Playlists Launch, Open Directory CD Importing ICON D-Command (HD only) Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 for Windows contains fixes in the following areas: Relinking Solo Locked Region Groups, Conforming MIDI Scoring ICON D-Command (HD only) Pro Tools 8.0.1cs2 includes all previous fixes from Pro Tools 8.0.1cs1 For a list of all fixes included with each update, please see the release notes on the individual pages listed above. Lets hope this doesn't break anything else!

If you are in the UK in mid Feb and fancy some free training on Media Composer 4 or Pro Tools 8 Avid and Digidesign are offering slots at this years Broadcast Video Expo in Earls Court 2 in London from Feb 16th to 18th 2010. This is from the press release... Register for FREE Hands-on Training in Media Composer 4.0 or Pro Tools 8 Presenting the latest in Avid products and integrated workflows, our interactive sessions will allow you to get up close and personal with the technologies of choice for the world's top content creators. Timeline Editing with Media Composer Experience the speed and fluidity of Timeline editing. Powerful effects from the Media Composer Palette A comprehensive overview of the on board Media Composer effects. "File based workflows on Avid" - import and export for cross platform working How to import and export movies, images & audio files. Harnessing the power of Media Composer Colour Correction Fundamental techniques for colour correcting Audio for Video: Pro Tools Explained A hands-on project covering the principles of Pro Tools. To enroll in a free hands-on session go here. Seminars & Presentations at the Show As well as showcasing our latest product releases, we are running a comprehensive programme of presentations with industry partners. See the full line-up. Important Note Broadcast Video Expo is the UK technology event for production, post & delivery. To register in advance for free tickets please visit: www.broadcastvideoexpo.co.uk. Please note registration for free training sessions from Avid does not include admission to the event.

When I posted on the Pro Tools v8.0.3 I referred to a problem with the Eleven plug-in...Late Breaking Technical Alert — Eleven Rack with Pro Tools LE 8.0.3 We are investigating a late breaking issue found with the initial release of Pro Tools LE 8.0.3 for Windows. On Windows systems (XP, Vista, Win 7) with Eleven Rack and Pro Tools LE 8.0.3, a Runtime error can occur after creating a new session. In some cases, Pro Tools quits without saving the session. Given the possibility of losing session data, we recommend that Eleven Rack users on Windows DO NOT update to Pro Tools 8.0.3 until we are able to resolve this issue and make a fix available.Digidesign have worked late and have released a new version of Eleven... Eleven Rack Update for Pro Tools 8.0.3 — Downloads & DetailsWho Should Use This Update?Even if you do not use an Eleven Rack, this update is recommended for all Pro Tools HD, LE, and M-Powered version 8.0.3 users on Mac and Windows to provide session compatibility with other users that may have an Eleven Rack.What's Fixed in This Update?Runtime error, access violation, crash, and possible session corruption with Pro Tools 8.0.3 and Eleven Rack (Item #121196)The Eleven Rack Update for Pro Tools 8.0.3 resolves an issue in which Pro Tools 8.0.3 (HD, LE, or M-Powered) with Eleven Rack could experience a Runtime error, access violation, or crash after creating a new session. In some cases, Pro Tools would quit without saving the session.On Mac, problems with the appearance and use of the Eleven Rack user interface window in Pro Tools were also seen in some cases.The Eleven Rack updates for Pro Tools 8.0.3 systems require previous installation of Pro Tools 8.0.3 HD, LE, or M-Powered on Mac or Windows:Pro Tools 8.0.3 — Downloads & Details

I have just received an email from Will Holiday... Hi Mike, I read your pro tools blog a lot, it's one of the best. I noticed a bug in pro tools 8. When in the fade dialog, and the fades are unlinked, the waveforms are drawn incorrectly when you start moving the fades lines around. (Pic attached). I can't find anything on the web about this. I wanted to see if you or anyone else knows about it, and if there was some kind of solution. Thanks, and keep up the awesome posts. and here is his picture... Thanks Will for this. So I did some checking both on line and on my own system and sure enough on my HD rig I found this... I also did a search on line both in the DUC and the Anwersbase and only found two references, one from Will flagging it up on the DUC here and also another user mrsticks also flagging it up... The fades dialog box allows control and manipulation of crossfades. In PT 8 the views of waveforms do not correspond to the movement of the fade lines when unlatched. (This is a feature I use often.) The "B" side of the fade actually decreases visually while you try to increase it. The audio is not affected but it makes creating the fade more difficult because the visual is incorrect. It will be interesting to see what develops...

I reported here that Digidesign had released the Mac versions of Pro Tools 8.0.3. They have now relased the Windows versions as well...Pro Tools 8.0.3 Updates for Windows — December 17, 2009For Pro Tools 8.0.3 details and downloads, see the following pages:Pro Tools HD 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools LE 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered 8.0.3 Update for Windows There has been an issue with Eleven and PT 8.0.3LE...Late Breaking Technical Alert — Eleven Rack with Pro Tools LE 8.0.3We are investigating a late breaking issue found with the initial release of Pro Tools LE 8.0.3 for Windows. On Windows systems (XP, Vista, Win 7) with Eleven Rack and Pro Tools LE 8.0.3, a Runtime error can occur after creating a new session. In some cases, Pro Tools quits without saving the session. Given the possibility of losing session data, we recommend that Eleven Rack users on Windows DO NOT update to Pro Tools 8.0.3 until we are able to resolve this issue and make a fix available.and  you will still have to wait for the M Power updaters... Not Yet Available — Coming SoonPro Tools M-Powered Essential 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered Essential 8.0.3 Update for Mac OS Xalso no point going to your dealer for an update disc, this is a download only update... Please Note: The Pro Tools 8.0.3 Updates are only available by download. You will need to use a broadband connection to download the update for your system. If you are not able to download on your Pro Tools system, you can download the update from any broadband connection, then transfer the update to your Pro Tools system.

Digidesign have announced the immediate availability of updater installers for v8.0.3 for Mac OS X and that 8.0.3 for other platforms will be available soon. Also full web installers for the Mac version should be available in about a week.Pro Tools 8.0.3 — Downloads & Details December 15, 2009 — In our ongoing effort to provide you with the best experience possible, Avid has released Pro Tools 8.0.3, a free software update that provides many fixes. Pro Tools 8.0.3 is a free update for all Pro Tools 8 owners. Version 8.0.3 supports the following operating systems:Mac OS X 10.6.1 – 10.6.2 (Snow Leopard)Mac OS X 10.5.5 – 10.5.8 (Leopard)Windows XP (Home or Professional, 32-bit)Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (32-bit)Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (64-bit) – Pro Tools M-Powered Essential onlyWindows 7 (32 and 64-bit) – Pro Tools M-Powered Essential only (Pro Tools HD, LE, and M-Powered can be used on Windows 7 as a public beta)Please Note: Pro Tools 8.0.3 software (and higher) does not support some retired products:Original MboxExpansion|HD ChassisMacintosh PowerPC ComputersPlease read the EOSS (End of Software Support) Announcements for more information.Pro Tools 8.0.3 Updates for Mac OS X — December 15, 2009For Pro Tools 8.0.3 details and downloads, see the following pages:Pro Tools HD 8.0.3 Update for Mac OS XPro Tools LE 8.0.3 Update for Mac OS XPro Tools M-Powered 8.0.3 Update for Mac OS XNot Yet Available — Coming SoonPro Tools HD 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools LE 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered Essential 8.0.3 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered Essential 8.0.3 Update for Mac OS XWhat they have fixed and left behind makes interesting reading...Edit Tool Selection via Keyboard Shortcuts is Inconsistent (Item #88083)In previous versions of Pro Tools, it was easy to accidentally hit the same keyboard shortcut twice and inadvertently switch between Edit Tool types. You can now enable Edit/Tool Mode Keyboard Lock in the Options menu to avoid this. When checked, this option locks the ability to change tool types (for example, to change from the normal Trimmer to the Scrub Trimmer) via keyboard shortcuts. However, tool types can still be changed via the mouse or right-clicking, and you can also still switch between tools (such as switching from the Grabber to the Trimmer) via keyboard shortcut. This option affects the following Edit and Tool modes: Grid, Zoom, Trim, Grabber, and Pencil. DigiBase Databases are Created on Every Volume Seen, Regardless of Designation (Item #117627)Beginning in Pro Tools 8.0.3, Digidesign Database files for each volume are now stored on the system drive only, in the location: /Library/Application Support/Digidesign. The benefits of this change are that Pro Tools will no longer write database files on all mounted volumes, volumes can be ejected from the OS while Pro Tools is running, and it resolves potential corruption issues that could occur when changing read/write permissions on some shared storage systems. With this new behavior, in order to maintain a volume's index when moving a drive from one system to another, make a copy of the volume's Digidesign Database file from the location mentioned above and place it in the same location on the second system before launching Pro Tools on the second system. Alternately, a volume's index can be re-created on the second Pro Tools system. Old Digidesign Database files located at the root level of your volumes can be safely deleted with Pro Tools 8.0.3, although users sharing hard drives with older Pro Tools systems may wish to keep the older Digidesign Database files. “Don’t Show This Again” Option Added to Some Error and Warning Dialogs (Item #119037)Pro Tools 8.0.3 adds a new “Don't Show This Again” option to some common error and warning dialogs. By checking this box in the error dialog, Pro Tools will no longer post that specific dialog or warning. Once checked, this setting is saved with the system. The list of dialogs which have been chosen can be cleared/reset at anytime in Setup > Preferences > Display by clicking the Reset button next to Reset “Don't Show This Again” Settings.Shortcuts for Certain Functions Not Operating (Item #119423)Keyboard shortcuts to toggle Remote Mode on/off, and to toggle LTC generation on/off, have been added.• To enable/disable Remote Mode, press Ctrl+Opt+Cmd+J (Mac) or Ctrl+Win+Alt+J (Windows).• If using an ICON, use the 9-pin Remote switch.• To enable/disable LTC Generating (GEN LTC), press Ctrl+Cmd+J (Mac) or Ctrl+Win+J (Win). Preference for QuickTime Playback Priority No Longer Needed (Item #117243)The Preferences > Operation setting for QuickTime Playback Priority has been removed (contemporary CPU performance makes it no longer necessary). Sound Designer 2 Session file format (Mac only)  Due to our adoption of a more modern disk subsystem, Pro Tools 8.0.3 will no longer support the Sound Designer 2 (SD2) Session format on Mac. Pro Tools will no longer have the ability to create new SD2 sessions, and you will be prompted to convert legacy SD2 sessions to WAV on open (the same behavior which occurs on Windows-based Pro Tools systems). Pro Tools will still be able to preview SD 2 audio files, import and convert them to a supported format, and bounce/export to SD2.The last item although now a major surprise will be a pain for Mac users with SDII sessions archived away. It will mean it will take longer to get an old session back up and running.

Pro Tools 8.0.1cs1 updates for all versions of Pro Tools 8.0.1 are available for download from the Pro Tools CS Updates page in the Support section:www.digidesign.com/support/csupdatesFor a list of all fixes included with each update, please see the individual pages listed below but the main ones are...Resolved an issue in which using the "/" key (forward slash key from the numeric keypad) to exit the Start/End/Length fields after entering a value would cause the entered value to be ignored. This broke the workflow with several 3rd party conform applications, including but not limited to maggot conformalizer software and Virtual Katy software. Resolved an issue in which the ProControl channel matrix would not display all parametersIn some cases, Avid video or satellite track edits don't align properly with the original AAF sequence from Media Composer Optimized scrolling speed and performance with track balls and Apple Mighty Mouse. The scroll speed is now more consistent with using the right/left arrow buttons in Pro Tools. Users should also install the latest drivers for their input device (from Apple, Logitech, Kensington, etc.)Released November 11, 2009:Pro Tools HD 8.0.1cs1 Update for MacPro Tools HD 8.0.1cs1 Update for WindowsPro Tools LE 8.0.1cs1 Update for MacPro Tools LE 8.0.1cs1 Update for WindowsPro Tools M-Powered 8.0.1cs1 Update for MacPro Tools M-Powered 8.0.1cs1 Update for WindowsPro Tools 8.0.1 is a free update for all Pro Tools 8.0 owners, and is also available from the CS Updates page.The above are the current CS Updates for Pro Tools 8.0.1. Previous installation of Pro Tools 8.0.1 for Mac OS X Leopard, Windows XP, or Windows Vista 32 is required.Note this is not an update for Mac users on Snow Leopard.

This is what has been posted on the DUC announcements forum... Hello, all,Last month, I posted a note on this page stating our intention to revisit our decision to remove support for Mix-era peripherals in our next Pro Tools release. After reviewing the technical challenges and, in no small part, considering the needs of our customers, we have listened to your feedback and decided to retain support for Mix peripherals beyond the current 8.0.1 release. While I hope that this is good news for most of you, please understand that there are no guarantees as to how long we will be able to maintain support for these and other legacy hardware products. We will continue to evaluate compatibility issues like this and our commitment to you is to do our best to provide you with as much advance notice as possible when similar changes are required. Thanks again for your feedback, understanding and your continued support of the Pro Tools platform.Steve SiacotosProduct Management - Avid/DigidesignTo see the whole thread go here on the DUC. So it looks as though, at least for now, those using a Mix interface like an 888-24 on the legacy port of an HD interface like the 192 I/O will be able to for some time longer but it would still probably be worth looking at saving up for an alternative solution if you need that extra I/O regularly because I can't see the reprieve lasting for ever.

DV Toolkit 2 is a post-production bundle for Pro Tools LE 6.1 and higher, which enables various features otherwise only available on TDM systems, so providing you with the opportunity to 'work to picture' using a very cost-effective LE-based system. Firstly it enables the Time Code functions, including the Time Code ruler, and so enables you to edit to picture with time code accuracy and convenience. It also includes Digitranslator 2.0, as described above, which handles the OMF, AAF or MXF exchanges. Included in the bundle are Digidesign TL Space, Digidesign X-Form and Digidesign's DINR Audiosuite plug-ins to help with de-noising any dodgy audio that might come along your way. This is nice, though it has to be said that DINR is getting very long in the tooth these days and can't really compete with the likes of WaveArts and Izotope RX.Having looked at the tools available to you, in the next few episodes, let's go through the process of getting an OMF into Pro Tools in more detail. Always remember that most problems with OMF imports stem from OMF creation problems on the video editing system. It is very important to co-ordinate in advance with the video editor to make sure they create the correct format of OMF file.

In the next few parts we are now going to look in detail at how you get your audio from a video editing package such as Avid Express or Final Cut Pro into Pro Tools, using Digitranslator for TDM systems and the DV Toolkit for LE systems.Digitranslator is a software add-on for Pro Tools that enables it to open OMF, AAF and MXF audio files, video files and sequences. With the Digitranslator v2.0 option, Pro Tools supports the import and export of OMF media files and sequences as well as AAF sequences directly into Pro Tools sessions without launching a separate application. From v6.9 Pro Tools supported import of MXF video, as well as import and export of MXF audio. Finally, with Pro Tools 7.0 and higher, you can import or export AAF files with embedded audio. How many standards do we need?Avid's Open Media Framework (OMF) was the first 'transfer file format' to come into widespread use, but two new standards, Advanced Authoring Format (AAF) and Media Exchange Format (MXF), have evolved to resolve the various interchange limitations. They are robust enough to contain all the information that any sequence contains and are extensible, meaning that new features can be added later.OMF has become a 'standard' because Avid, who designed it, have a hold on the video-editing market and not because it came from a recognised standards organisation. However, there have been a number of obstacles to it becoming a universal standard. First, it has a history of instability, and second — partly as a result of this — Avid changed the format with the introduction of OMF2, which is actually different enough from OMF1 to be considered a completely separate format. Finally, not all third-party companies wanted to support a standard with proprietary origins.To be fair, Avid made serious attempts at moving OMF into the public domain through both the SMPTE and AES standards bodies. Unfortunately, the attempt foundered for several reasons, the main one being that OMF uses an underlying technology called Bento, which is a 'container' format for recording data on disk. Although it is freely licensed to OMF developers, Bento was developed by and is owned by Apple, and for SMPTE or AES to standardise something, all proprietary issues, including patents and copyrights, must be formally waived, which Apple refused to do.From the start, both the AAF and MXF formats were designed to avoid the limitations OMF came with. To speed this along and to gain some independence, an organisation was created called the AAF Association. AAF was initiated by Avid and Microsoft, who have since been joined by many other important companies and organisations. Avid and Microsoft worked together to replace Bento with a new container format, and the resulting AAF design is derived from OMF and retains its power and flexibility while refining the details and adding significant capabilities. In a further step to aid take-up and improve independence, the AAF Association have made the software developer kits to support AAF 'open source', meaning that they can be freely copied and are available at Source Forge.Meanwhile, in true 'standards form' (why have one standard when you can have three or four?) another effort was under way. Industries beyond the professional production business, such as telecoms, Internet and computer companies, now require a universal way to transport video and audio media around. The Pro-MPEG Forum (another consortium) was formed to take up this challenge, and, in co-ordination with the European Broadcast Union and SMPTE, helped create MXF.Even though the standardisation process is not complete, more and more companies are supporting both the AFF and MXF formats in their software. Together, AAF and MXF offer the prospect of data interchange between picture, audio and effects systems and thus the ability to cut a sequence on a picture system, hand it intact to sound, move it to the mixing stage, and finally load it back into the picture system with everything visible and audible everywhere. Through Digitranslator 2, Pro Tools supports them both as well as OMF2s.

Digidesign have come up with a number of special offers to encourage us to buy some more hardware or replace some of our ageing hardware.The first is an offer to LE users to invest in an HD rig. From the web site...Take advantage of this special offer and save up to 47% off retail pricing when you trade in your Digi 001, Mbox®, Mbox 2, Mbox 2 Mini, or Mbox 2 Pro towards the purchase of a Pro Tools|HD 1 and 96 I/O system, Pro Tools|HD 2 Accel and 192 I/O system, or Pro Tools|HD 3 Accel and 192 I/O (with 192 A/D Expansion Card) system.Or save up to 54% off retail pricing when you trade in your 003®, 003 Rack, 003 Rack+, Digi 002, or Digi 002 Rack towards the purchase of a Pro Tools|HD 1 and 96 I/O system, Pro Tools|HD 2 Accel and 192 I/O system, or Pro Tools|HD 3 Accel and 192 I/O (with 192 A/D Expansion Card) system.For more info go here on the Digidesign web site.The next is to offer a free MassivePack 8 bundle if you buy an HD core system. From the web site...For a limited time, purchase a Pro Tools|HD®, Pro Tools|HD 2 Accel, or Pro Tools|HD 3 Accel core system and get the MassivePack 8 — a valuable collection of some of the industry’s most used, most loved sound processing plug-ins — absolutely free (a €915 value).For more info go here on the Digidesign web site.Finally for any ProControl owners an offer to encourage you to upgrade to an Icon. From the web site...For a limited time, trade in your old ProControl system towards the purchase of a new ICON D-Control™ ES or D-Command® ES console and save up to 27% off standard exchange pricing!For more info go here on the Digidesign web site.All these offers expire on Dec 18th 2009.

Here is what they have said...Avid Technology has issued a statement following Friday's resignation of Gerard 'Tex' Schenkkan from the post of VP and general manager, audio. "Given the recent integration of our audio and video groups into a single product organisation and the corresponding changes to our organisational structure, Tex has made the decision to pursue opportunities outside of Avid. Tex made valuable contributions to our audio products during his time with the company, including playing a central role in developing this new single audio and video product group. Avid wishes him well in his future endeavours." Schenkkan's departure follows the September exit of Frank Loyko, who joined Digidesign (now Avid) from LOUD as worldwide director of live sound sales just two years ago, and the further loss of chief technology office Dave Lebolt to Apple in June.It seems strange that the guy who announced Dave Lebolt going is now going himself. It may be a slimming down process as this intimates or the outword signs of rumblings inside.

For the basic detail on this see my previous post on this here.There has already been a lot of discussion on the Digidesign User Conference about this update.For example on the DUC there is an enormous thread on the thickness of the automation line. In PT 8 it was made thinner and Digidesign got a lot of flack for it although I personally like the thinner line. However they have made it thicker (2 pixels instead of 1 pixel and got loads of flack for it.Other threads on PT 8.0.1....The horizontal scroll rate has been changed - read about it here includes an explanation from Digidesign Tech Support..Possible problem with Clear Selected unused regions - read about it here, it may have something to do with region groups.There are a number of other Pro Tools 8.0.1 threads that appear to relate to other problems rather than PT 8.0.1.However Digidesign have made one other announcement with the release of PT 8.0.1 and that is the end of Power PC support so for all off you still using G4 & G5 Macs this will be the latest version you will be able to use.The newly released Pro Tools 8.0.1 software will be the last version of Pro Tools to support PowerPC-based Macintosh computers. Future versions of Pro Tools software will no longer be compatible with PowerPC-based Macintosh machines. However, Pro Tools 8.0.1 will continue to be made available in its current form to Avid customers who are still using PowerPC Macs for the foreseeable future. Additionally, product and support documentation will continue to be maintained on the Pro Tools Support site at www.digidesign.com/support.More more info see this page on the Digidesign web site.

Avid have posted a simple announcement about Snow Leopard support, they say...At this time, we’re working closely with Apple to bring Snow Leopard support to the entire Pro Tools® line and extended product families, and ask that all Mac users please wait to upgrade until we officially announce Snow Leopard support.Some folk have tried running Snow Leopard and there are are various posts on the Digidesign User Conference about it.

Digidesign have announced that a small number of Windows users maybe getting this "Divide by Zero" error after installing to the Pro Tools 8 cs3 upgrade. This from the Knowledge Base... Why do I get "Could not complete your request because Integer error occurred (divide by zero) at address: 0x620A9C77 in module: DAE.dll" when launching Pro Tools LE 8.0cs3 on Windows? This error is caused by a Windows Registry modification that prevents 8.0cs3 from launching with a Digi 002/003. It should only occur on systems where a first-time install of 8.0 was never launched before updating to cs3.There is a script to download that will modify the Registry and allow cs3 to launch.For more info and the download click here to go to the new Knowledge Base entry for this problem

Digidesign have posted a new system to access Tech Support, they say....We have changed our internal 'email' system used by Tech Support and Customer Service Admin. Customers that have been contacting us via www.digidesign.com/tsr or www.digidesign.com/ask can now contact us though our new Support Center. New users need to Create a Support Profile Returning users can Login to Support Center (If your password does not work, use the "Forgot Your Password" link on the Login page) I have just tried to log in with my Digidesign profile usernale and password but the system denied all knowledge of my existence!!So I registered as a new user and the first thing I noticed is that it is all Avid branded. However in there is a new searchable Knowledge Base so it is looking promising.Let me know how you get on with this new system.

David Lebolt, senior vice-president and chief technology officer of Avid Technology, Inc – and ex-general manager of Digidesign has reportedly resigned from the company last week.Dave Lebolt joined Digidesign in 1994 and has held a variety of positions, including, most recently, Vice President and General Manager, Avid Audio where he was , he is responsible for the company’s strategic technology vision and user experience. Before Digidesign, Dave was a professional keyboardist, producer, arranger, and composer. He toured and/or recorded with many well-known musical artists, including David Bowie, Billy Joel, and Laurie Anderson. It is believed he is now taking a job at Apple. In a statement, Avid said "In his 15 years with Avid, Dave played a significant role in the strategic development of the company and its advancement in the marketplace. We wish Dave well in his future endeavours."I would love to know why he has resigned and gone to Apple. I hope this isn't a sign that Avid are movong away from the Apple platform.

For those of you still in Pro Tools 7.4 world Digidesign haven't forgotten you. They have released 7.4.2c3 for those of you on Leopard and 7.4cs9 for those of you on Tiger and Windows.What's New in These Updates?In addition to all fixes from previous CS versions, Pro Tools 7.4cs9 and 7.4.2cs3 include the following:All Platforms (HD, LE, M-Powered, Mac & Windows)Fixed: Converting sample rate during Save Copy In or Import Session Data adversely affects volume automation (Item #111930). Saving a session copy with sample rate conversion to a rate different from the session's may result in erroneous automation ramps between breakpoints. This is mostly evident in scenarios where a static automation level had been changed over the duration of a single region.Fixed: Problems moving multiple selected regions (Item #99538). If you selected several adjacent regions, clicking on one of them to move all selected regions will only move the region you clicked on.Fixed: Incorrect multi-track audio import from QuickTime movies (Item #102279). Multi-track QuickTime movies import into Pro Tools 7.4 with each audio track containing a mix of all tracks, rather than individual tracks.HD Only (Mac & Windows)Fixed: With a surround send, pan automation gets stuck in one channel on playback (Item #112702). When assigning sends to a bus sub-path and using the "follow main pan" function, send pan automation may get stuck and not play back dynamically.Fixed: Importing audio into a session with many video regions may take a long time (Item #110829). Sessions containing many video regions may cause audio file import to take a long time. This affects importing from DigiBase or via drag and drop from the desktop and may cause delays of up to 10 seconds per file.HD Mac OnlyFixed: "Lost Communication" errors in Digidesign Expansion|HD systems (Item #105818). Pro Tools systems with cards installed into the Digidesign Expansion|HD chassis may experience -12001, -9161, or -1140 errors indicating a loss of communication with the Expansion|HD chassis. A restart is required.Go over to the Digidesign web site cs update page for more details.

Pro Sound News Europe have announced that Jed has left Digidesign amongst a sizable list of departures from other companies in the Pro Audio world at the end of January. From the article…. The departure of Jed Allen from the role of European sales director of Digidesign took many by surprise. As part of Digi's core team these past few years, he is widely perceived to have played a pivotal role in bolstering the company's presence in both studio and live markets, not least with regard to the VENUE live sound production environment. I have known Jed from the days when he was working for Digidesign UK with Chas Smith who went on to cover all international sales and marketing responsibilities for Digidesign and then Vice President and General Manager, Avid Video. Jed, on the other hand, became Manager of Digidesign UK and then more recently as Sales Director for Europe. I too am surprised that Jed has left and as yet it seems that Pro Sound News Europe are the only ones with the story.